“THE MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH/THE PREMATURE BURIAL” offers one of the best films from the entire series, “THE MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH.”  Vincent Price stars as Prospero, an Italian Prince/Satanist, worshipped by his cult for saving them from “the red death”, a mysterious illness killing everyone in the surrounding countryside. 

However, inside his castle, Prospero pushes evil and Marquis De Sade-type sexuality to the extreme.  Jane Asher plays a beautiful peasant, Francesca, whom the evil prince hopes to make service the “Dark” prince.  The cast is excellent, and the production values outstanding. 

MGM has presented the film’s original aspect ratio of 2.35:1 with 16:9 enhancement.  It’s an excellent transfer.  Colors are vibrant in every scene, without any oversaturation.  Contrast is also excellent, with deep blacks and grays.  Fleshtones appear natural throughout.  There is no artifacting or grain anywhere  The Dolby Digital mono sound has some fidelity restraints, however dialogue is intelligible and free of distortion.  

“THE PREMATURE BURIAL” stars Ray Milland, as a man with an obsessive, but realistic fear of being buried alive!  His fear causes him to hide away from everything and everyone until meeting, falling in love with, and eventually marrying Emily. She tries to help him overcome his fears, but something happens to push him into a deathlike trance, being “declared” dead, and buried alive.  This information won’t ruin the film, as there are surprises to come!   MGM has preserved the film’s 2.35:1 aspect ratio with 16:9 enhancement.  The color values aren’t as impressive as in “RED DEATH,” often appearing dull in comparison.  However, it’s still a decent looking image.  Contrast is impressive with deep blacks and grays, but there is a lot of grain.  Fleshtones appear natural. 

The DOLBY DIGITAL MONO track is impressive, with minimal background hiss.  Each film has its own side of the single dvd.  Each film also has its own extras, including interviews with Roger Corman and more.